OH BABY
D6 MARCH 2021
THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH
Sleeping Basics
allowing them to fall asleep before transferring them to their crib or bassinet. This practice helps an infant understand that the area is meant for slumber and encourages them to learn how to get themselves to sleep. During the day, expose your newborn to light, noise and playtime. Once nighttime approaches, introduce a dimmer environment with less activity to prepare them for a full night’s sleep. Strict Routine A routine is crucial when teaching an infant about bedtime. It will be a process they expect and remember as they grow into the toddler stage. To establish a sleeping schedule, be diligent about incorporating a winddown • Use softer vocal tones as the evening nears. • Put on pajamas around the same time each night. • Follow with brushing teeth alongside your little one. • Tuck a child in, in the same manner each time. phase to build a sleep association. The NSF recommends:
If you’re an expecting first-time parent, you have probably heard the horror stories about the upcoming lack of sleep you will face. However, the Nemours Foundation experts suggest that newborns can sleep up to 16 hours a day. As a caregiver, it’s crucial to ensure they are sleeping well and create a routine that allows you to rest so you can be at your best. During the first few weeks, it’s common for an infant to sleep in short bursts of a few hours. This is mainly due to their developing digestive system, which requires regular nourishment. Plan to create a schedule that allows a feeding time at least every four hours to help a newborn become accustomed to a beneficial routine. Follow these tips from the National Sleep Foundation to encourage positive sleep patterns during infancy. FollowTheir Lead Newborns are prone to sharing their need for sleep by fussing, crying or rubbing their eyes. Watch for these patterns throughout the day to strategize a sleeping schedule. The NSF recommends putting a baby down for a nap when they are sleepy, rather than
Before long, your kiddo will find comfort in the familiarity of slumber.
Photo Courtesy of Tiffany Williams Photography
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